If you are a Kobe fan, then you are probably looking for the latest Kobe Bryant news updates about your favorite star. The good news is, the Black Mamba will be suiting up for the upcoming season, and it looks like he is ready for the task at hand - win another NBA title. 

Throughout his career, Bryant has been seen as the closest candidate in terms of players who should be compared to Michael Jordan. While the 38-year-old has already done a lot in his NBA career, he is still one ring short of tying Jordan with five championships under his belt. 

Now that the Black Mamba has returned, is this new Lakers squad capable of even entering the playoffs?

It all depends on Bryant's drive and mentality all throughout the season. 

In spite having a roster that looks not as good as the other teams in the West, Los Angeles actually has a pack of underrated players who certainly have a lot to prove. 

As for new acquisitions Carlos Boozer and Ed Davis, their respective teams (Chicago and Memphis respectively) did not provide the value they are worth especially during the latter stretch of the previous season. 

The same goes for former Rocket Jeremy Lin, who was cast out from Houston's starting lineup even though he showed sparks of consistency throughout his tenure with the Rockets. 

However, Bryant will need to push even harder just to bring these fellas to the playoffs. 

On the other hand, Kobe can still pursue free agency next year and try to look for instant competitors to help him win that elusuve 6th title. Is it possible? Certainly. But considering how proud Bryant is with being a Laker and being able to win in his own way, he surely wouldn't bother joining another team. 

In that case, he'll be back to vintage Mamba for this upcoming season, and he'll take everyone by surprise when he carries Los Angeles to the post-season.